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The Cherokee Heritage Center was recognized as an outstanding tourism attraction and commended for its website by the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department and the Oklahoma Travel Industry Association (OTIA) October 14.

Lt. Governor Mary Fallin, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism Jane Jayroe and Chair of OTIA Tina Gilliland presented the Redbud Awards for excellence in tourism at the Governor's Conference on Tourism in Oklahoma City. The awards are the highest honor given for tourism in the state. They recognize the outstanding works of businesses, organizations and individuals that help promote and develop tourism within Oklahoma. Merit Awards are runners-up to Redbud Awards.

The Cherokee Heritage Center received the Redbud Award for Outstanding Attraction. Entries were judged on their overall contribution to Oklahoma's tourism industry, improvements and attendance in comparison to previous years, quality, creativity, variety, value, marketing and public relations.

"They continue to provide a diverse array of both cultural and educational events throughout the year for both repeat and new visitors," judges said. "Renovations and increased marketing have really enhanced the attendance levels."

The center also received a Merit Award for Best Web Site for an organization with a marketing budget of more than $50,000.

"Based on the target age groups, this type of site would appeal and not intimidate," judges said. "Great site for anyone interested in Cherokee Heritage - very thorough."

Entries were judged on effectiveness, appropriateness for their target audiences, ease of use, visual appeal and creativity.

"The quality of this year's entries reflects the continuing advancement of Oklahoma's diverse tourism industry," said Jayroe. "This competition recognizes leaders in the development of tourism and offers participants opportunities for growth through professional evaluation."

Nearly 80 entries were submitted in fifteen categories, and 31 judges participated in evaluating the entries. Judges included tour operators, public relations professionals, website designers and reporters.